Thorax

Pronunciation
/THOH-raks/
Category
Anatomy
Singular
Thorax
Plural
Thoraxes

Definition

The middle section of the insect body, containing the legs and wings.

Etymology

From Greek 'thorax', meaning 'chest'.

Example

The thorax of a fly contains two pairs of wings and three pairs of legs.

Related Terms

Usage Notes

The thorax is responsible for locomotion in insects. It plays a vital role in the development and evolution of insects.